Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer - Aerospace

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive the design and development of advanced aerospace systems. This role demands leadership of a distributed team, high-level CAD/CAE work, and ownership from concept through validation.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in aerospace mech design, strong CAD/CAE proficiency, and exceptional communication skills to coordinate across disciplines while working remotely with an administrative link to Randburg.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• Experience leading engineering teams on complex aerospace projects (5+ years).
• Proficiency with CAD/CAE tools and aerospace materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and development of aerospace systems and components.
• Oversee full design lifecycle from concept to testing and qualification.
• Mentor a distributed team of mechanical engineers and ensure milestones are met.
• Use CATIA/SolidWorks and ANSYS/Nastran for design, analysis and validation.
• Ensure designs meet aerospace performance, weight, thermal and reliability requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including structural, thermal, propulsion and QA.
• Create and maintain detailed design docs, drawings and FMEAs.
• Drive innovation and process improvements in mechanical design workflows.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Remote team collaboration

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CATIA

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Nastran

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in aerospace innovation, is seeking a highly accomplished Remote Lead Mechanical Engineer to drive critical design and development initiatives. This is a fully remote position, perfect for a seasoned engineer who thrives on complex challenges and leading technical projects from concept to execution. You will be instrumental in the mechanical design of advanced aerospace systems and components, ensuring adherence to the strictest industry standards for performance, safety, and reliability. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in aerospace mechanical engineering, a strong command of CAD/CAE tools, and exceptional leadership qualities to guide a distributed team. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking aerospace projects while enjoying the flexibility of remote work, with an administrative connection to our operations in Randburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the mechanical design and development of complex aerospace systems, sub-systems, and components.
• Oversee the entire design lifecycle, from conceptualization and trade studies to detailed design, analysis, prototyping, and testing.
• Direct and mentor a team of mechanical engineers, providing technical guidance and ensuring project milestones are met.
• Utilize advanced CAD (e.g., CATIA, SolidWorks) and CAE (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran) software for design, simulation, and stress analysis.
• Ensure designs meet rigorous aerospace requirements for performance, weight, strength, thermal management, and reliability.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including structural, thermal, propulsion, and systems engineers, as well as manufacturing and quality assurance.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive technical documentation, including design specifications, drawings, analysis reports, and FMEAs.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement in mechanical design processes and technologies.
• Conduct design reviews and present technical findings and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical design, with a minimum of 5 years in the aerospace industry.
• Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams and managing complex aerospace projects.
• Expert proficiency in advanced CAD/CAE software relevant to aerospace applications.
• In-depth knowledge of aerospace materials, manufacturing processes, and industry standards (e.g., NASA, ESA).
• Strong understanding of structural analysis, dynamics, vibration, thermal analysis, and fatigue.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster collaboration in a remote environment.
• Proven ability to solve complex engineering problems and drive technical solutions.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package, and the chance to work on state-of-the-art aerospace projects. While working remotely, the role is administratively tied to our presence in Randburg . Our client is committed to fostering a culture of innovation and providing ample opportunities for professional development and career growth. You will enjoy the flexibility of working from anywhere, contributing your expertise to projects that push the boundaries of aerospace technology.